Currently, there is no legislation for access to information held by the Government. There exists a non-statutory Code on Access to Information which, inter alia, defines the scope of information that will be provided, sets out how the information will be made available and lays down the relevant procedures. There have been calls for providing the community with a statutory right to be well informed about the Government, the services it provides and the basis for policies and decisions that affect individuals and the community as a whole.
In May 2013, a sub-committee was formed to conduct detailed reviews of the local situation and comprehensive comparative studies of the relevant laws in overseas jurisdictions, with a view to making appropriate recommendations on possible options for reform where appropriate.
The Sub-committee reviewed the experience in other jurisdictions and relevant literature on the issue including the report issued in March 2014 by the Ombudsman.
The Sub-committee published a Consultation Paper in December 2018 to invite public views on whether the current regime relating to access by the public to information held by the Government or public authorities should be reformed; and if so, in what way.
The Sub-committee's secretary is Mr Dennis Ng, Government Counsel.
If you wish further information on this project, please write to the Secretary of the Law Reform Commission by fax, post or email.
The Commission's offices are at:
9/F, Champion Tower
Three Garden Road
Central, Hong Kong
Fax: 3702 0136
Email: hklrc@hkreform.gov.hk